LeapScholar

Is it possible to do a part-time job during my studies abroad in Germany?

21 Jul 2026 · Answered by Sumit Singh Chauhan · 1 min read
Sumit Singh Chauhan
Sumit Singh Chauhan Verified
Leap Scholar's Counsellor
View Profile →

Yes, you can work part-time during your studies in Germany as an international student, but there are clear limits.

- 140 full days or 280 half days per year allowed (a full day is more than 4 hours, a half day is up to 4 hours)
- Alternatively, up to 20 hours/week during the lecture period
- During semester breaks, you can work full-time, but this still counts toward your annual limit

Jobs as a student assistant (HiWi) at your university are usually exempt from these limits. Working more than 20 hours/week during lectures may affect your student status and lead to social insurance contributions.

If you want to work beyond these limits or do self-employed work, you must get approval from the local immigration office. If you need help understanding these rules or planning your part-time work, please contact your LeapScholar counsellor.

More expert answers

Neelam B
Neelam B Verified
Leap Scholar's Counsellor
View Profile →

Yes, international students in Germany can work part-time during their studies.

As a non-EU student, you are allowed to work up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year (about 20 hours/week during semesters). Full-time work is permitted during university holidays. Typical part-time jobs include student assistant roles, library work, retail, hospitality, and tutoring.

The minimum wage is €9.60/hour (subject to change), with many students earning €10 - 15/hour depending on the job and location.

Balancing work and academics is important - universities recommend not exceeding 20 hours/week during semesters. For help finding jobs or understanding work rules, contact your LeapScholar counsellor.

Syeda Uzma
Syeda Uzma Verified
Leap Scholar's Counsellor
View Profile →

Yes, as an international student in Germany, you can work part-time to help cover your living expenses. Non-EU students are typically allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during semester breaks (subject to change).

Common part-time job options include:
- On-campus roles (like research assistants or library staff)
- Retail or hospitality jobs (such as waitstaff or baristas)
- Private tutoring

Some jobs may require German language skills, but English-speaking roles are available, especially in larger cities. Make sure you follow the latest visa and work regulations, as exceeding allowed hours can lead to penalties.

If you need help finding part-time opportunities or understanding work rules, your LeapScholar counsellor can guide you.

Komal Yadav
Komal Yadav Verified
Leap Scholar's Counsellor
View Profile →

Yes, you can work part-time while studying in Germany, but there are specific limits.

- During semesters: Up to 20 hours per week.
- During semester breaks: Full-time allowed, but total work must not exceed 140 full days or 280 half-days per year.
- Student assistant roles (HiWi): Exempt from the 140/280-day limit.
- Exceeding limits: Requires approval from local immigration and the German Federal Employment Agency.

If your income goes above certain thresholds, you may have to pay income tax and social security contributions. Make sure your health insurance remains valid during employment.

If you need help understanding your specific situation, please reach out to your LeapScholar counsellor.

Tamanna Jaisingh
Tamanna Jaisingh Verified
Leap Scholar's Counsellor
View Profile →

Yes, you can work part-time in Germany as an international student to help cover your living expenses.

- Work limits: Up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year, or up to 20 hours per week during the lecture period (subject to change).
- Job types: Research assistant (HiWi) roles at your university are usually exempt from these limits.
- Health insurance: You must have valid German health insurance if you take a part-time job or paid internship.

Balancing work with your studies is important to maintain good academic standing. For guidance on your specific situation, connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.

Leeladhar S
Leeladhar S Verified
Leap Scholar's Counsellor
View Profile →

Yes, international students in Germany can work part-time to help cover living expenses.

As a non-EU student, you may work up to 140 full days or 280 half-days per year - about 20 hours per week during the semester. You can work full-time during university holidays. Typical part-time roles include:

- Student Assistant (HiWi): On-campus research or admin jobs, often related to your field.
- Minijob: Earn up to €603/month tax-free in roles like retail, hospitality, or delivery.
- Internships: Practical experience, sometimes mandatory for your course. Voluntary internships count toward your work limit.

Many jobs are listed through university career centers, job portals, and networking. Some positions may require German language skills, but English-speaking roles are also available, especially in larger cities.

Work regulations and pay rates are subject to change. If you need help finding opportunities, connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.

Muskan Jain
Muskan Jain Verified
Leap Scholar's Counsellor
View Profile →

Yes, as an international student in Germany, you can work part-time to help reduce your living expenses.

You are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic semester and full-time during semester breaks, within an annual limit of 140 full days or 280 half days. Typical student jobs include retail, hospitality, tutoring, and university assistant roles. The minimum wage is expected to be around €13.90/hour in 2026, which can significantly help with your monthly costs.

Be sure to balance work with your studies and follow visa regulations to maintain your student status. LeapScholar can help you find suitable part-time opportunities and explain the latest rules if needed.

Abhishek Mehta
Abhishek Mehta Verified
Leap Scholar's Counsellor
View Profile →

Yes, you can work part-time in design-related roles while studying in Germany as an international student.

- You are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the semester.
- During semester breaks, you can work full-time, up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year.
- Freelance or self-employed work (including freelance design) requires special permission from the local immigration office.
- Student assistant roles at universities are exempt from the 20-hour limit and can provide relevant experience in your field.

Part-time design roles are available in areas like graphic design and UX/UI. Make sure your visa conditions allow part-time work and seek approval for any freelance projects if needed.

Chaithrakala P L
Chaithrakala P L Verified
Leap Scholar's Counsellor
View Profile →

Yes, as an international student in Germany, you can work part-time while studying.

- During the semester: Up to 20 hours per week
- During semester breaks: Full-time allowed
- Annual limit: 140 full days or 280 half days (up to 4 hours each); exceeding this requires special approval

Common part-time jobs include:
- On-campus roles (student assistant/HiWi): Research, admin, or academic support, often related to your field
- Retail and hospitality: Cashier, waiter, or customer service
- Tutoring: Private tutoring in subjects you excel at
- Internships (Werkstudent): Part-time roles in your study area, often leading to future job opportunities

Learning some German can help you access more jobs. Always follow work-hour limits and legal requirements to maintain your student status.

Still have doubts?

Speak to a LeapScholar expert — free, no obligations.

4.7/5 Google 🎓 25K+ admits
Book Free Counselling Session

More Cost & living questions

More Germany questions

Book a free counselling call Book Now